Steven John Gillespie, 78, of Omaha, died in his sleep on Saturday, May 11, 2024.

He is survived by his beloved partner of 38 years, Pattee Dworak; brother Michael Gillespie; sister Phyllis Gillespie Carter; nephews Todd, John, and Jake Gillespie; and niece Traci Jo Post Whelan.

He was preceded in death by his parents Carl and Marion Gertrude Gillespie; brother Thomas; and nephew Daniel.

Born in Omaha in 1946, in the vanguard of the Baby Boomers, Steve attended crowded classes at Holy Ghost School and Omaha South High School long before educators knew about dyslexia. To overcome this setback, Steve used his many mechanical skills and a strong work ethic to have a very productive life. Steve also suffered from alcoholism, but he triumphed over the disease when Pattee came into his life.

Steve’s first occupation was as a welder, but his real passion was cars and trucks and driving them. He saved his money and bought a dump truck. In the summer, he hauled gravel and asphalt, and in the winter, he hauled snow. He always worked and made a great life for Pattee and himself. He enjoyed being grandpa to Pattee’s many grandchildren and was never happier than when a child sat on his lap.